pessimistic
Americanadjective
Related Words
See cynical.
Other Word Forms
- nonpessimistic adjective
- nonpessimistically adverb
- overpessimistic adjective
- overpessimistically adverb
- pessimistically adverb
- unpessimistic adjective
- unpessimistically adverb
Etymology
Origin of pessimistic
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Even those who are happy with their own personal finances are often pessimistic about the broader economy.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026
Mayer was pessimistic about the Shields fight happening, pointing to the weight as an issue.
From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026
One-third of Americans are somewhat or extremely pessimistic about the potential impact of AI on their careers.
From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026
On Monday, European Commission data showed businesses and consumers across the 21-nation currency area felt more pessimistic about their prospects.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026
But Winnie is a determined person, and I suspect my pessimistic reaction only strengthened her resolve.
From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.